Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has strongly condemned the violent attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, April 8, at West End Mall in Kisumu, where the senator was reportedly attacked by armed individuals.
She termed the incident as a grave violation of fundamental rights and a worrying sign of declining security.
In a detailed statement, Odinga expressed shock that a national leader could be targeted in broad daylight while going about routine personal activities.
She noted that Osotsi had been seeking a haircut and a cup of coffee when the attackers struck, raising concerns about the presence of organized criminal elements operating openly.
The legislator warned that such incidents point to a deeper problem, citing what she described as a growing trend of politically motivated violence.
She emphasized that the right to security is guaranteed to every Kenyan, regardless of status, and that any attack on an individual undermines the safety of all citizens.
Odinga also questioned the progress of past investigations involving similar incidents, suggesting that failure to hold perpetrators accountable risks encouraging further lawlessness.
She urged security agencies to act decisively and ensure those responsible are identified and prosecuted without delay, noting that the location of the attack is equipped with surveillance systems that should aid investigations.
While calling for calm, she stressed the importance of safeguarding democratic freedoms, adding that political differences should be resolved through dialogue and lawful processes rather than violence.
She wished Sen. Osotsi a full and speedy recovery, while urging authorities to demonstrate commitment to justice and restore public confidence in the country’s security systems.
